CLEARWATER, Fla. — Kevin Youkilis downplayed the reason he was scratched from Tuesday’s lineup against the Phillies.

But when it comes to physical issues in the Yankees’ camp nothing is taken lightly. Considering Youkilis’ recent medical history, nothing should.

So when Alex Rodriguez’s replacement at third base informed the medical staff Monday he felt discomfort on his left side and the trainers informed Joe Girardi, the manager told the trainers to tell Youkilis he wasn’t playing.

The Yankees announced the problem as a sore left oblique muscle, but Youkilis said it was a hydration issue.

“I guess after practice [Monday,] he said he felt a little symptom right here,’’ Girardi said pointing to his left hip. “He said it felt like a cramp. I don’t think it’s anything serious. We are being really cautious because we can. He won’t play [Wednesday] and we will re-evaluate him after a couple of days.’’

Youkilis said he doesn’t believe the problem is serious.

“Just one of those things where after I swung [Monday]. It was hot, I was dehydrated. I got water, and I was fine. Being a month away from games, they want to take it precautionary. I wanted to play [Tuesday], and I was perfectly fine to play. I didn’t feel like there was any risk,’’ Youkilis said. “The doctor said very, very mild. Just a little thing that happens. I think I learned my lesson, too. Don’t say you’re tight.’’

When that was relayed to Girardi, he said he will talk about Youkilis being honest with the training staff.

“I’ve had an oblique before,” Youkilis said. “It didn’t feel anything like that. It’s basically like you get a cramp in your side.’’

Though Youkilis said he hopes to play Wednesday, Girardi didn’t sound like that would happen.

“We will make him go through hoops,’’ the manager said.

* The Yankees dropped their third straight exhibition game, losing 4-3 to the Phillies, despite solid pitching performances from David Robertson, Joba Chamberlain and Jose Ramirez. J.R. Murphy homered over the center-field fence.

Ramirez, Chamberlain and Robertson combined for four shutout innings. The Yankees are 1-3.

* GM Brian Cashman didn’t change his mind about Johnny Damon joining the Yankees. Monday, the former Yankee lobbied hard through the media to help fill in for Curtis Granderson. But the plea didn’t get into Cashman’s head.

“I love Johnny Damon and he was an awesome Yankee when we had him but that was a while ago,’’ Cashman said. “It’s not something we are going to pursue. I love Johnny and his leadership, but that doesn’t fit our needs. We need somebody who can play the outfield.’’

Cashman didn’t make contact with Damon, but did receive a text from agent Scott Boras, Damon’s agent.

“I responded the same way I responded to you guys,’’ Cashman said.

The general manager also reiterated he is against moving Eduardo Nunez to left field while Granderson is shelved.

“For me, it doesn’t make sense. I don’t think he profiles as an outfielder with the bat,’’ Cashman said.